Èze: Discover the Precious Gem of the Côte d’Azur

By Michael Berman

8/21/15

If Monaco is the French Riviera’s most known destination, the tiny,

medieval village of Èze is its best-kept secret. Perched high atop a mountain, this

charming and majestic village offers some of the most dramatic views of the clear

blue Mediterranean Sea and the neighboring towns of Cap Ferrat, Menton, and

of course the principality of Monaco. The winding cobblestone streets of Èze are

dotted with magenta bougainvillea, a flower that blooms brilliantly in May. In this

medieval village, you can discover many shops, perfumeries, restaurants, and art

galleries as you ascend to the great heights of Le Jardin Exotique, perhaps the

best vista Èze has to offer. Èze is simply a must-see for any visitor to the south of

France.

Èze at First Sight

Upon entering Èze, the visitor takes in the winding roads and ancient

medieval architecture immediately. Art galleries are tucked away and nestled on

almost every alley, as are intimate, romantic cafes and restaurants. The faint

aromas of delicious provençal fare mix with the floral scents and the sunshine to

create a truly intoxicating experience. Walking the streets of Èze harks back to

the grand castles in any legendary fairy tale. A magical feeling emanates from

the artisan shops and galleries as artists show their original oil paintings and

watercolors. You cannot help but fall in love with this bohemian village.

The Dining Experience

The best places to satisfy the appetite in Èze are the two hotels Chateau

Èza and Chateau de la Chevre d’Or. These two hotels and restaurants sit

cliffside and offer the best vantage points for diners. The menus are delectable.

However, all these fine things come at a price and prepare to drop beaucoup des

euros for all the fine cuisine and views that Èze has to offer. For more affordable

dining options in Èze, Le Pinocchio offers a nice menu of Mediterranean fare and

a shady place to sit and have a glass of rose wine. Le Troubadour offers a

traditional provençal menu with many entrees under 50 euros. Another option for

affordable dining might be Café D’Èze, a small outdoor café with a delicious

menu of sandwiches and salads. My own lunch at Le Pinocchio was delicious

and the service was impeccable.

Wandering through Èze

Another sight in Èze is Eglise Notre Dame de L’Assomption, truly stunning

in its medieval architecture and yes, another stunning view. The clock tower is a

beautiful sight that punctuates the Èze skyline. There are many unique pieces of

art to see inside the church. The church is a great place to stop and take out your

camera for pictures on your way to the top of Èze Village.

No visit to Èze would be complete without climbing to the very top of Èze

Village to the elusive Le Jardin Exotique d’Èze. Yes, there is an entrance fee of 6

euros, but trust me, it’s worth it. Immediately upon entering the garden, you’re

treated to absolutely stunning views of the Mediterranean coast and neighboring

towns from 1,401 feet; Mega yachts sparkle like bright stars in the crystalline

waters of the sea. This is what you’ve come to Èze to see: a striking, dramatic

view. I know my memories of Èze are forever etched in my mind. Do make the

trip to Èze; it is worth your time.

Leave a Comment

Have you been to Èze? What were your memories of your visit? What

were your favorite dining experiences and shops? Feel free to leave any

comments you might have about Èze below.